A pair of Irish George II mahogany armchairs

A fabulous pair of Irish George II mahogany library armchairs, retaining fine original colour and patina. The curved tapering backs with a serpentine shaped top rail with fine carved scrolls to each point. The central vase shaped splat accentuated by a pair of carved eagles heads, with a waist of further tight scrolls stepping out to join the seat rail.

Each side of rounded form with a serpentine shaped armrest emanating out to further carved eagles head to each handrail. The seat rails form the shape of an axe head, with a drop in needlework covered seat.

The front legs of cabriole shape with beautifully carved trailing acanthus leaves bordered by tight C-scrolls to the knee and a claw foot, the out-swept back legs joined by a turned bobbin stretcher.

Further Information:
These chairs follow closely designs illustrated in The Knight of Glin and James Peill's book "Irish Furniture". The shape of the back, the central splat, the arms and the feet follow closely to Irish designs of this period. The major difference with the pair we have on offer here, is that in nearly all respects (carving, form, detailing) they are superior to most of the models illustrated in that definitive publication. Fantastic quality throughout, utilising the best early Cuban mahogany, these chairs represent a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of Irish heritage.

Excellent. Possible minor old restorations, waxing. The needlework is a later replacement.